Installing a new Cooler? How to develop a plan of action.
Placing a jug of juice into the back of the refrigerator or a six-pack into the freezer has probably led to the realization that not all beverages solidify at the same temperatures. Some concoctions become solid quickly and easily, while others remain liquid for a remarkably long time, even at very cold temperatures. Although a walk-in freezer keeps foods especially cold, it may not be the best idea to store beverages at these temperatures.
How Alcohol Responds
Liquor, beer, and wine contain ethanol. Ethanol has specific chemical properties that set its melting and freezing points. At -173 degrees Fahrenheit, ethanol will melt, meaning that it changes from a solid to liquid state. At home, the typical unit keeps food somewhere between 0 and -9 degrees Fahrenheit. A walk-in freezer is significantly colder.
Another crucial factor to consider is the percentage of alcohol contained in various beverages. Most beers contain only about 4–6 percent alcohol, and wine comes in between 12–15 percent. Distilled liquors are much higher, generally around 40 percent alcohol. This means that beers and wines contain other ingredients in addition to the ethanol, and these other ingredients typically have a lower freezing point. The other ingredients generally include water, sugar, and salt.
A Fast Chill
When a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer needs a fast chill, placing these beverages into the freezer will generally accomplish the goal. Placing a bottle of distilled spirits into the freezer will only result in a slight thickening in most cases. However, the savvy consumer will not leave these beverages unattended, or they could explode. After a short time, it would be best to transfer these items to the refrigerator before serving.
While most consumers don’t have a walk-in freezer at their disposal for beverage storage, it’s interesting to note temperature storage guidelines of spirits.
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